The philosopher AC Grayling appeared at a debate on cuts to the arts at
Foyles bookshop in central London, during which time he was shouted down
by protesters who exclaimed: 'AC Grayling get out, job cuts, money for
the bosses.' At the end of the debate, student protesters set off a
smoke bomb which filled the room with pungent red smoke. Organisers were
forced to evacuate about 100 people.

Why the protests?

The debate was Grayling's first public appearance since details emerged
of his plans to set up NCH, the first private university offering
courses for fees of £18,000 a year. Students who attend the
private university would be taught by academics such as Richard Dawkins
and Steven Pinker. Critics argue it will create an elitist and
two-tiered university system in which only the wealthiest students would
have access to the best facilities.

How did Grayling respond?

He said later: 'It is always upsetting being the target of attacks. I
didn't expect to change minds there because I understand the real
anxiety that people feel about higher education.'

How did the media cover it?

The protest gained a lot of national media coverage as it came so soon
after major commentary on the NCH.